First Impressions: 2019 Suzuki RM-Z250

Was the wait worth it?

Vital Review

While Suzuki showed us the initial photos of this bike and some light comments a few months ago, it's created a waiting game as we got closer to finally riding the bike. To speed things up a bit, Suzuki flew us to Japan to meet with the R&D staff behind the machine and finally see one up close..,oh yeah, and ride it. With the consumer models expected to arrive towards late January to early February, it's nice to get the opportunity to ride the bike so much earlier and begin to develop some opinions on the changes. In this case, the bike we rode wasn't off the final production line but we were told it was running finalized settings, but we're not quite sure what to label our exact bike, so just a small disclaimer there. Also due to the recent Typhoon in Japan, things were a bit wet on

While Suzuki showed us the initial photos of this bike and some light comments a few months ago, it's created a waiting game as we got closer to finally riding the bike. To speed things up a bit, Suzuki flew us to Japan to meet with the R&D staff behind the machine and finally see one up close..,oh yeah, and ride it. With the consumer models expected to arrive towards late January to early February, it's nice to get the opportunity to ride the bike so much earlier and begin to develop some opinions on the changes. In this case, the bike we rode wasn't off the final production line but we were told it was running finalized settings, but we're not quite sure what to label our exact bike, so just a small disclaimer there. Also due to the recent Typhoon in Japan, things were a bit wet on the track we rode, we got some riding photos on two dry sections but the rest were a mix of swampy sand and some slick base.

Not ideal conditions but we spent enough time with the bike to answer a few of our own questions. First off, is the bike improved? Most definitely! How much? Well, click play on the audio file below to find out. Due to how far the trip was, a video producer wasn't an option and audio is the quickest way to get the info back. If you like reading, check back in around 48 hours for more precise thoughts, along with more photos of the test. If you want to learn more about the technical changes, check out our First Look: 2019 Suzuki RM-Z250

First Look: 2019 Suzuki RM-Z250

Full-details on Suzuki's all-new 2019 RM-Z250

Suzuki has given us the details on their long-awaited RM-Z250, while we attend their model launch in Japan. One year after the debut of their new RM-Z450, it was expected we'd see a new 250 four-stroke from the Hamamatsu, Japan-based manufacture. Albeit, it's obvious to see this bike received a larger amount of updates then its big brother, which is definitely a good initial sign.

Starting off, the 2019 RM-Z250 has gained an all-new chassis; including the swingarm, subframe and main frame itself. Of course, the bike has a chassis developed for it's own use and isn't shared with the 450. The most noticeable change is the raised center cradle connection point, giving the bike a center port exhaust due to the extra clearance. From there the bike receives the same look as the '18-'19 RM-Z450,

Suzuki has given us the details on their long-awaited RM-Z250, while we attend their model launch in Japan. One year after the debut of their new RM-Z450, it was expected we'd see a new 250 four-stroke from the Hamamatsu, Japan-based manufacture. Albeit, it's obvious to see this bike received a larger amount of updates then its big brother, which is definitely a good initial sign.

Starting off, the 2019 RM-Z250 has gained an all-new chassis; including the swingarm, subframe and main frame itself. Of course, the bike has a chassis developed for it's own use and isn't shared with the 450. The most noticeable change is the raised center cradle connection point, giving the bike a center port exhaust due to the extra clearance. From there the bike receives the same look as the '18-'19 RM-Z450, which is downright stunning at first sight. Suzuki has also equipped this machine with updated suspension parts; a new positioned shock body has been coupled with a swap from KYB's PSF2 air fork to their AOS spring fork (golf clap everybody!).

As for the most important point of any 250 four stroke, the powerplant. The engine in this RM-Z250 has a list of improvements, mostly focused at the top end of the machine with a claimed five percent peak horsepower gain. This starts at the cylinder head with a decreased intake angle, giving it more of a "downdraft design" and from their they've also added a second injector. The injector in the throttle body is swapped to the bottom side to help make room for the repositioned body and change the way the fuel is sheared by the incoming air, while a second injector was added to the bottom of the airboot...just behind the air filter element. Inside the airboot is a separator that helps channel and shear the fuel incoming from the second injector. The RM-Z250 also comes with a new exhaust system to suit the center port exhaust and gains a bit longer head pipe, with the hopes of increasing low-to-mid performance.

Transmission ratios have also been updated, giving a claimed improved gap between second and third gear while also adding one tooth to the rear sprocket. Some updates have been added to their S-HAC (Suzuki Holeshot Assist Control) as well, meaning there are tweaks to the algorithms behind the launch modes.

The engine itself has been adjusted 8.5mms in the frame, slightly raised and slid back in the new chassis when compared to the prior model's positioned. This chassis is again, all-new, being lighter and with new rigidity factors. The overall wheelbase has also been expanded with a longer swingarm. The swingarm itself is six percent less rigid in torsional measurements, meaning the swingarm can move more in a side-to-side motion in a sense, for what Suzuki says would improve rear wheel traction.

Suspension-wise, KYB's 48mm AOS coil spring fork has replaced the outgoing PSF2 air fork. The triple clamps that hold these forks have also been updated for a different rigidity factor, while also losing 60 grams of weight. The rear shock unit, also from KYB, features a new shock body and spring that are lighter by 370 grams. This shock is also coupled with a new linkage ratio that is said by Suzuki to come directly from their race team design.

As for the stopping factor, the 2019 RM-Z250 has also been updated in this regard with the front rotor going form 250mm to 270mm in diameter Being that the RM-Z250 is coming a bit later than other brands' models, they've been able to couple the bike with Dunlop's newest MX33 tires.

Scroll below for the technical specifications and press release information from Suzuki. Tomorrow we'll swing a leg over the new bike and share our initial impressions with you.

Suzuki Releases Technical Information for All-New 2019 RM-Z250

Detailed technical information now available for the completely upgraded RM-Z250

Brea, CA (September 10, 2018) - Suzuki Motor of America (SMAI) is proud to release technical details for the all-new 2019 RM-Z250 motocrosser. The RM-Z250’s features and preliminary specifications are available on the SuzukiCycles.com website.

Redesigned for 2019, the updated RM-Z250 now mirrors the cutting-edge styling of the championship-caliber RM-Z450. An upgraded engine and list of chassis changes that achieve superior performance, were developed so the RM-Z250 remains the best handling 250 on the track.

The 2019 RM-Z250 features a new cylinder head that contributes to better throttle response and power, and a new dual injector EFI system that increases performance through the entire rev-range. Exceptional handling from a new, lighter aluminum frame and swingarm contribute to the RM-Z250's advancement as well as a new KYB-supplied suspension that includes a new coil-spring fork. Race-ready Dunlop MX33 tires and improved braking performance increases stopping power and feel with a larger front brake rotor to help keep the rider in control.

Back in the pits, tuning the new EFI system for maximum performance is easy thanks to Suzuki’s proven fuel-coupler system.

Evolving the fundamental performance elements of ‘RUN’, ‘TURN’ and ‘STOP’ to a new level, Suzuki has infused the Winning Balance into the 2019 RM-Z250. With particular attention focused on advancing its ‘TURN’ capabilities, Suzuki engineers have achieved an even greater level of balance between the race-proven engine and the slim, nimble chassis to again raise the standard for cornering performance.

Suzuki’s RM Army and Amateur Racing Support is top notch, offering over $4 million in contingency, trackside support, and the opportunity to train with Ricky Carmichael at Suzuki’s exclusive Camp Carmichael. Want to see why champions choose Suzuki? Visit racesuzuki.com for more information on Suzuki’s Amateur Support Pro- gram and enlist in the RM ARMY!

Overview

Redesigned for 2019 and ready for battle, the RM-Z250 marries the sleek, race-ready appearance of the RM- Z450 with an upgraded engine and list of chassis changes to achieve superior performance. Using Suzuki’s “RUN, TURN and STOP” philosophy, factory engineers have made the 2019 RM-Z250 an even more formidable competitor.

The RM-Z250 has always set the standard as the best-handling 250 on the track. Now, the 2019 edition has more power, thanks to a host of changes that include a new cylinder head and dual injector EFI, to boost performance through the entire rev range. The frame and swingarm are new, as is the KYB-supplied suspension that includes a new coil spring fork. Strong brakes and ergonomically shaped bodywork that help keep the rider in control as the RM-Z250 carves up the racetrack.

Back in the pits, tuning the new EFI system for maximum performance is easy, thanks to Suzuki’s proven fuel-coupler system. Suzuki’s Winning Balance is again on display with the 2019 RM-Z250, as it again raises its own high standard for cornering performance.

Engine Features

Fitted with a new cylinder head and other improvements for 2019, the fuel-injected, 249cc, liquid-cooled, four-stroke, four-valve, DOHC engine remains proven and reliable.

The engine improvements result in greater power output with improved throttle response through the entire rev range.

The cylinder head features a new intake port shape and finish that fine-tunes the fuel/air charge into the combustion chamber to increase engine output.

A 30 percent larger air cleaner opening is combined with a more direct air cleaner outlet tube path into the throttle body for increased air ow.

The updated fuel injection system has extra-smooth power delivery, high fuel efficiency, superb reliability, and easy tuning capability.

The new throttle body eliminates complex control linkage so the rider feels a more direct connection to the engine.

For the first time on a Suzuki MX model, twin fuel injectors are used. The fuel/air mix created by both injectors improves charging efficiency and increases high rpm power.

The primary fuel injector is at the bottom of the throttle body and sprays fuel at the butterfly valve to improve fuel and air atomization. The secondary injector is positioned in the air cleaner inlet duct so the fuel and air have more time to mix and cool before entering the engine.

To feed the new twin-injector system and mix the fuel and air charge to improve throttle response, the new, high-capacity fuel pump has 17 percent more output pressure.

The new throttle body eliminates complex control linkage, so the rider feels a more direct connection to the engine.

The intake camshaft profile is new, with more valve lift, increasing power at all engine speeds.

The cam chain tension adjuster and guide have been redesigned to reduce friction and mechanical loss.

To increase reliability, the machining process at the piston pin holes is changed to reduce stress at the piston crown.

Engine starting remains simple, due to a proven kick-starter and automatic decompression system that works precisely and efficiently (eliminating the need for a heavy and costly electric start system).

The new, high- ow exhaust system has a longer head-pipe, tapered mid-section, and multi-layer silencer that has better ow through the entire rev range, with an emphasis on low-rpm performance.

The new exhaust silencer is a four-layer design that enhances performance and maintains compliance with AMA sound regulations.

New resin engine protectors help guard the coolant pump (on the right) and the stator cover (on the left) from debris and stones.

For quick fuel adjustments to suit riding conditions, two couplers are provided. One is for a rich, and another for a lean fuel setting compared to the stock setting. Riders can change fuel settings in seconds by simply connecting either coupler to the wire harness.

The 2019 RM-Z250 features an evolved and faster traction management system. The Electronic Control Module (ECM) continually measures throttle opening, engine speed and gear position and then adjusts the ignition timing and fuel injector duration to ne-tune the engine output to deliver the best traction for the riding conditions.

The RM-Z250’s traction management system is different from a street-bike traction control system as it does not measure rear tire spin. Because the needs of a motocrosser are different than a street bike, this system offers constant adjustment that maximizes traction at all times.

The Suzuki Holeshot Assist Control (S-HAC) is a selectable launch system derived from the factory race bike to help riders’ takeoff from the starting gate for an early lead.

To aid riders at the moment of launch, there are three stages of power adjustment from the S-HAC system; 1) the moment of initial launch, 2) when crossing the starting gate, and 3) acceleration up to full-speed.

There are three S-HAC modes riders can choose for the best option per their skill level and starting conditions. The launch settings for A-Mode and B-Mode are updated on the 2019 RM-Z250 to help the rider control engine speed during starts.

A-Mode: For hard surfaces or slippery conditions at the starting gate. In this mode, S-HAC alters ignition timing at the moment of launch and the ride over the gate to reduce wheel slip to deliver a smooth take off. It also advances ignition timing during this sequence for stronger acceleration. After 6.0 seconds or when you reach fourth gear, the system shuts off and returns to normal ignition timing.

Benefit of A-Mode: For novice riders, and/or hard and slippery traction conditions, use A-Mode for a more controlled launch.

B-Mode: When conditions at the starting gate have better traction, and a more aggressive launch is desired. S-HAC will advance the ignition timing to allow increased throttle response and stronger acceleration off the line. The ignition timing alternation is in a similar sequence as A-Mode, but with increased overall timing. One of three conditions will return the ignition to normal operation (whichever happens first): After 6.0 seconds or when you reach fourth gear, the system shuts off and returns to normal ignition timing.

Benefit of B-Mode: For skilled riders and/or good starting conditions, use B-Mode for a more

aggressive launch.

Base Mode: Standard power launch, no action required on the S-HAC switch.

Specifications and other information may change without notice.

Transmission & Drive Features

The five-speed transmission is updated with a new second gear ratio and overall final ratio to match the engine’s stronger output for better acceleration and top speed.

True to Suzuki transmission standards, the gear shift operation is smooth and precise. Carefully designed parts like the precisely machined shift cam and corresponding gears create a transmission a racer can rely on.

The multi-plate, wet-clutch uses a rack-and-pinion clutch release mechanism for precise feel of the engagement and disengagement points while riding.

New hexagonal aluminum rails are used on the sub-frame for lighter weight, a slimmer appearance, and easier air lter access.

The sub-frame rails are moved inward to slim the bodywork, but are also raised to provide additional space for the larger air cleaner.

Not only is the new sub-frame narrow, but all of the body work is slim so the rider can move freely in the cockpit, especially during spirited riding.

The new, KYB-supplied shock absorber has a thin-wire spring, spring guide, cushion rubber guide, and lower link that weigh less and have better movement reaction. The new spring and link weigh a pound (447.5 grams) less than the prior parts.

This KYB shock has new damping force circuits and a different rear lever ratio to improve the suspension’s traction characteristics.

The damping force adjusters have a wider tuning range so the settings can better match the conditions and the rider’s style.

Both fork legs have the same springs and damping force components, so front suspension tuning and maintenance is balanced and easy: a great bene t during frequent riding.

This new fork uses a free-piston design that separates air and oil to optimize the damping characteristics. Other internal changes help control the damping cartridge’s pressure and spring recoil, so the fork action remains supple and precise.

The new Renthal aluminum tapered handlebar has a straighter bend (less pull-back) than prior models to help aid the rider during aggressive maneuvering.

A new, lighter upper fork bracket is used to complement the new front suspension and handlebars.

The brake pad material is also changed to improve performance, plus the new front brake lever is a push rod type that more effectively transmits the squeezing force that the rider applies to the master cylinder.

A new design rear brake master cylinder hugs the frame beam to reduce dirt contamination and the chance of the rider’s boot touching it during riding.

The wheels feature black anodized D.I.D DirtStar rims with a new cross-section design that maintains strength while reducing un-sprung weight.

To match the handling potential of the 2019 RM-Z250, the wheels are fitted with the race-developed Dunlop Geomax MX33 tires. Additionally, the rear tire is nearly a half-pound (160 kg) lighter than the tire used on the prior RM-Z250.

Suzuki beak-inspired styling has sharp front fender and radiator shroud shapes that blend into the frame’s side covers and an upswept tail, to promote the impression of speed while reducing weight and easing service.

The functional styling and the motorcycle’s trim chassis permits a variety of rider positions that facilitate control and comfort.

In addition to the ergonomic improvements from the new bodywork, the rider’s foots pegs are moved 0.12 inches (3.3 mm) forward and 0.2 inches (5.2 mm) upward, while the handlebar grip position is moved 0.3 inches (7.4 mm) forward and 0.15 inches (3.8 mm) downward, to create a high level of rider-control during competition.

The new plastic fuel tank weighs a half-pound less than the prior model’s aluminum tank. Fuel capacity is raised to 1.7 US gallons.

The seat base, inner fenders, and side covers were developed to reduce moisture and dirt from reaching the air cleaner. This helps prevent debris from contaminating the air filter.

The new, slimmer seat has revised foam density to aid the rider’s control of the motorcycle. The seat weighs a half-pound less than the prior model’s and has a large gripper panel that runs nose-to-tail on the cover.

The Suzuki Championship Yellow bodywork is enhanced with distinctive striping and modern logo graphics.

Additional Features

A variety of Genuine Suzuki Accessories for RM-Z250 owners are available including a large selection of Suzuki logo apparel.